Have a question you forgot to discuss at the doctor’s office?

Have a question you forgot to discuss at the doctor’s office or are too embarrassed to ask? The experts at Samaritan Health Services are here to help.

Q: How can I help my child get ready to begin school?

A: School readiness starts at birth. Before age 3, regular well-child checks are recommended to monitor your child’s growth and development, then yearly checkups after the age of 3. Staying current on vaccines protects your child and those around them from preventable diseases. Regular visits help providers track your child’s physical, cognitive and social development.

From 3 to 6 years of age, we expect kids to develop physical skills such as running, hopping on one foot, throwing, using scissors, and drawing shapes and people, among others. Cognitively, they can often form sentences with three or more words, recognize colors, numbers and letters, and engage in imaginative play. Socially, they learn to play with other children, dress themselves and begin to recognize emotions.

Remember that every child develops at their own pace. Regular visits allow your provider to get to know your child, answer your questions, and offer ideas to support learning and development. If delays are identified, early intervention can make a big difference!

If your child hasn’t had a well-child check this year, schedule one now by calling 541-917-6407 if you are a patient of Mid-Valley Children’s Clinic, or 541-243-0342 if you are a patient of another Samaritan clinic that provides well-child checks.

— Galena Kolchugina, MD, Samaritan Pediatrics

Q: My child plays fall sports. I worry about the risks of concussion if they take a hard hit. What should I do to ensure their safety?

A: Concussions are a risk in most sports. Before the season begins, check with your child’s school or health care team to learn more about concussion resources that protect student athletes.

If a head injury occurs, symptoms can be delayed for hours or even days afterward. It is important to closely monitor your child and recognize symptoms, including:

• Headache.

• Dizziness.

• Nausea or vomiting.

• Sensitivity to light or noise.

• Trouble concentrating.

• Poor balance.

• Sleep disturbances.

• Slurred speech or delayed responses.

• Lack of consciousness, even if brief.

If your child shows symptoms, have them stop all physical activity immediately and get them checked by a health care provider or contact one of our concussion care specialists at 541-768-7700. Remember, recovery takes time, and both physical and mental rest are essential for healing.

When it comes time for your child to return to activities after an injury and if you are unsure if they are ready, consider this rule of thumb, “When in doubt, sit them out.” Being cautious is always better when it comes to your child’s health and well-being.

— Nicholas Phillips, MD, Samaritan Athletic Medicine Center

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